Princes Channel

Work on a project to dredge Princes Channel to create a sustainable southern access channel to the Port of London as a shorter and less complex alternative to Fisherman's Gat has been completed. The dredging provides an 8-metre deep access to the Port from the south.

Work began towards the end of 2007 and the dredging was finished earlier in 2008. The PLA's contractor, Dredging International (UK) Ltd, has handed the channel over to the PLA.

Dredging International used its brand new high performance trailer suction hopper dredger "Brabo" for the first time on this project.

Dredging International's dredger "Brabo"

This improved channel makes it possible for the majority of ships that come into London to reach their destinations more quickly. By making this investment we have given ships access to a shorter, straighter and simpler channel, which will help to underpin London's long-term competitive position.

This programme was a significant undertaking for us, involving our navigational safety, environmental and dredging teams. A full environmental impact assessment for the scheme was done - to view a copy, click here (pdf file - opens in a new window).

For more information on environmental aspects of the project, click here.

The dredger "Ostsee" at Rochester during the earlier Princes Channel dredging programme

A key environmental concern had been ensuring that, as far as possible, the dredged materials were put to beneficial use, rather than simply being dumped back at sea.  During the first stage of project, completed during 2006,  approximately 350,000m³  of sand was taken from the channel and used in a regeneration project at Rochester Riverside. This meant that more limited natural resources were saved for the future. Unfortunately similar opportunities were not available for the final phase of the dredge.

In parallel with the dredging programme, we are looking at the benefits arising from the deepened Channel that might be derived by the Port and passed on to operators. We commissioned independent experts Royal Haskoning to assess these potential benefits.

Their report suggests a number of measures that might be considered further, including possible changes that might be made to the pilotage arrangements, whilst ensuring that safety levels are maintained. This report indicates, however, that there is much work still to be done in assessing potential risk mitigation measures before any decisions can be taken.

This further work will be taken forward with the relevant stakeholders and then be subject to further consideration by the PLA Board before any changes are made.